RGB Networks is releasing a new dynamic bandwidth manager (DBM), which allows operators to deliver up to 50 percent more VOD programming using the same amount of bandwidth, the company said.

In typical VOD deployments, cable operators deliver 10 SD VOD programs per 6 MHz 256-QAM channel, with each program allocated a fixed amount of bandwidth. RGB’s DBM enables 15 or more SD programs to be carried in the same amount of bandwidth, while still maintaining optimum picture quality, and also allows operators to increase the number of HD VOD programs they offer.

Operators can simply plug the DBM into existing VOD deployments because it is compatible with all the major components of an end-to-end VOD system, including VOD servers, resource managers and QAM modulators. It can also encrypt each VOD program as it is transrated, and it can be used in SDV architectures.

RGB will demonstrate the bandwidth optimizing capabilities of the DBM at Cable-Tec Expo in Orlando, June 19-22.

Several major North American cable operators are expected to begin trials of the DBM in Q3 2007.